Perfusionist
Salary

Six-figure salaries are the norm for Perfusionists in the United States, with median pay hovering around $102K per year. Geographic location and tenure each impact pay for this group, with the former having the largest influence. Making up 74 percent of those who took the survey, male Perfusionists greatly outnumber their female counterparts. Job satisfaction is reported as high by the vast majority of workers. Medical benefits are awarded to almost all, and a fair number earn dental coverage. The data for this synopsis comes from respondents who took the PayScale salary survey.

XTotal Pay combines base annual salary or hourly wage, bonuses, profit sharing, tips, commissions, overtime pay and other forms of cash earnings, as applicable for this job. It does not include equity (stock) compensation, cash value of retirement benefits, or the value of other non-cash benefits (e.g. healthcare).

XTotal Pay combines base annual salary or hourly wage, bonuses, profit sharing, tips, commissions, overtime pay and other forms of cash earnings, as applicable for this job. It does not include equity (stock) compensation, cash value of retirement benefits, or the value of other non-cash benefits (e.g. healthcare).

Job Description for Perfusionist

A perfusionist works in a medical institution to provide care related to the maintenance of the circulatory system. A perfusionist operates equipment whenever medical situations deem it necessary for patient’s circulatory and respiratory functions to be supported. During transfusions, a perfusionist operates the necessary extracorporeal circulation and autotransfusion equipment. A perfusionist may administer IVs to patients and subsequently will need to be familiar with relevant administering methods. The perfusionist should be familiar with all equipment related to the job, including ventricular assist devices. The perfusionist will often work with a physician but should be able to independently determine which equipment needs to be used. When the devices are being used, the perfusionist should be able to monitor the patient’s vital signs and make sure that the machines are working correctly. A perfusionist may also work in an operation room to assist with open heart surgery. The perfusionist should be able to work well on a team, recognize problems that are encountered, and be able to correct them or refer the patient to the appropriate medical party.

The position may require certifications from organizations such as the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion. A college-level degree may be required, but specific education in perfusion is essential. In some positions, the perfusionist will be responsible for purchasing the devices needed for the job, so it is important for the perfusionist to keep up with the latest developments in the field.

Perfusionist Tasks

Monitor patient's circulatory process during procedure.

Operate heart-lung equipment during surgery under direction of physician.

Administer various types of blood products, medication and control the temperature and blood flow of patient.

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Pay by Experience Level for Perfusionist

Median of all compensation (including tips, bonus, and overtime) by years of experience.

For many Perfusionists, extensive experience does not lead to significantly more money. Although employees with less than five years' experience earn around $87K on average, the five-to-10 year group has a much higher, six-figure median of $100K. Perfusionists bring in $113K after working for 10 to 20 years. Folks who have racked up more than 20 years in the field report incomes that aren't that much higher than less experienced individuals' earnings; the veterans make just $118K on average.